The Lagos State Police Command has defended a Rapid Response Squad (RRS) patrol team filmed driving against the flow of traffic, saying officers responding to emergencies are permitted under national traffic regulations to use the opposite lane when necessary.

The Command made the clarification on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, following the circulation of a viral video showing a police patrol vehicle marked ‘RRS Attack 07’ driving against traffic.

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According to the police, the officers were responding to distress calls from motorists trapped in a traffic congestion and had been dispatched by the Command’s Control Room to address the obstruction.

In a statement shared on its official X account, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Tijani Fatai, said the patrol team, led by an Inspector of Police, was the closest available police formation to the affected location.

He explained that the officers had to navigate through the opposite lane to reach the source of the congestion and restore the free flow of traffic.

The Command said the decision was an operational measure intended to prevent the traffic obstruction from spreading to adjoining roads and disrupting economic activities.

It maintained that the officers’ actions were taken in the interest of public safety rather than out of disregard for traffic regulations.

Citing Regulation 158 of the National Road Traffic Regulations, 2012, the police said officers responding to emergencies or engaged in civil protection could disregard the directions of prescribed traffic signs, provided they exercised due regard for the safety of other road users.

However, the Command condemned what it described as the harassment and obstruction of the officers during the operation.

It expressed concern over the confrontation and statements made by individuals captured in the video, suggesting that their conduct raised questions about possible personal animosity and attempts to undermine officers carrying out their duties.

The police also faulted the alleged deliberate blocking of the road, saying it denied other motorists access and infringed on their rights.

The Command further cited Section 98 of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, which it said makes obstructing officers in the lawful discharge of their duties an offence.

While acknowledging that citizens have the right to question police conduct, demand accountability and offer constructive criticism, the Command warned against intimidation, harassment, provocation and deliberate obstruction of officers.

It reiterated its willingness to receive genuine complaints and submit its actions to legitimate public scrutiny, provided such engagement remained within the law.

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The police also reaffirmed their commitment to protecting citizens’ rights while seeking cooperation from members of the public in carrying out their responsibilities.